Terry cloth (also called terry towelling or terry fabric) is woven fabric with loops of thread on one or both sides. These loops create the pile that gives towels their absorbency and soft texture.
How Terry Cloth Works
The looped pile structure dramatically increases surface area compared to flat fabric. This surface area absorbs and holds water through capillary action - water wicks up into the loops and is held there.
Double-sided terry (loops on both faces) is more absorbent than single-sided. Most bath towels use double-sided terry construction.
Types of Terry
Loop terry: Uncut loops remain intact. More absorbent and durable. Standard for bath towels.
Cut terry (velour): Loops sheared to create smooth surface. Less absorbent but smoother feel. Common for beach towels with printed designs.
French terry: Loops on one side only, smooth on the other. More common in clothing than towels.
History
Terry cloth originated in France around 1841. The looped pile was reportedly discovered by accident when a weaver's mechanism malfunctioned, creating unintended loops.
Turkey industrialised terry cloth production, which is why premium towel cotton is often called "Turkish cotton." The name "terry" may derive from the French word "tirer" (to pull).